ST. LOUIS (AP) — Brian Elliott was a surprise starter in goal for the St. Louis Blues against the Los Angeles Kings even though Jaroslav Halak, activated a day earlier, was listed in goal on the pregame sheet.

Elliott allowed 14 goals the previous three games while Halak was sidelined with a groin injury. Coach Ken Hitchcock said after Saturday's 6-5 shootout loss to the Ducks that he'd go with rookie Jake Allen if Halak wasn't ready to go.

Halak came out first during the pregame skate Monday night, usually NHL protocol for the starter.